Property theft from inside vehicles skyrockets, residents urged to lock their cars

Rotorua opportunists are sifting around looking for unlocked vehicles to steal from. Photo / File

People who leave their vehicles unlocked and valuables sitting in plain sight are asking for trouble, a Neighbourhood Watch spokesman says.

It comes as Rotorua police record an increase in vehicle break-ins throughout the city in recent weeks.

The issue is rife throughout the wider Bay of Plenty region, with police believing the biggest target for opportunists is payWave cards.

Neighbourhood Support Rotorua co-ordinator Richard Perkins said the suburbs of Fenton Park and Glenholme were often targeted.

Many of the targeted items were personal effects, such as wallets, a spokesperson for Rotorua police said.

"Rotorua police receive several thefts from vehicle reports every couple of days from within the wider Rotorua City area," they said.

"While the numbers have only increased slightly, we do treat any increase seriously."

Thieves are targeting personal effects left out in the open. Photo / Duncan Brown

The spokesperson did not offer specific numbers for the thefts there.

Thefts usually happen overnight where inadequate security measures are in place, such as houses without security lighting and vehicles without alarms.

However, the city does go through periods when nearly all of the recorded thefts are from unlocked vehicles.

"This includes vehicles parked in the CBD during the day, and in driveways or on the roadside in the evenings, or overnight," the spokesperson said.

"Rather than particular vehicles, it is more common for older vehicles to be targeted as they often have a lack of security measures."

Perkins said the simple message for the community was to not leave valuables in their cars and to make sure they were locked.

"I'm not sure why they're breaking in but I guess it's just easy targets, easy money. It's a really annoying situation," he told the Rotorua Daily Post.

"If there's $1000 lying on the front seat, you're asking for it aren't you? If there's nothing in your car, it can't be stolen."

Anyone who has their vehicle broken into or has items stolen should report the incident to police via the 105 number.

This allows police to know where to deploy officers and to analyse what has happened.

"Rotorua police work hard at identifying and pursuing lines of inquiries with this crime type," the spokesperson said.

"We need the community to work with us and let us know if they see something that is out of the ordinary, unusual or suspicious.

"If it is happening now and needs an emergency response, call 111 or if it has happened already – call 105."

Advice from Rotorua police to keep your belongings safe

"Thieves are often opportunistic. If you can eliminate the opportunity, you reduce your chances of being a victim," the spokesperson said.

• Lock your vehicle.

• When you park and get out of your vehicle double-check what you are leaving behind and what can be seen? Take the time to remove items like your bag, keys, phone, charger, wallet, those loose coins, those gym shoes, your laptop or tools.

• If you can't remove it, make sure it is totally out of sight.

• Think about where you are parking. The best-case scenario is in a garage.

• If you can't manage this, at least ensure it is in a well-lit area.

• If you can, install a security system – this can include anti-theft systems like an old-school steering wheel lock through to an alarm system.